Installation Guide

Transitions, moldings, and wall base:
5. Start the second row using 1/2 of a plank or tile, align the grout line as necessary or offset the tiles as
desired. Place the cut end against the wall. Insert the tongue on the long side of the tile plank into the
groove of the tile in the first row. Hold the tile in a 20° to 30° angle while applying pressure inward and
down until they lock together. To complete the second and all successive rows, it will be necessary to lock
the short end into the previous tile first before locking the long side of the tile together. Angle the tile and
push the tongue into the groove and adjust it until the tongue locks into place. It may be necessary to lift
both tiles slightly to lock the joint together. Complete the second row allowing 1/4 inch (6.35mm) expansion
space at the end of the row.
6. Start the third row offsetting the end joints of the previous tile with the cut end against the wall. Complete
each row thereafter following this system. Plan the layout to avoid using small tiles (less than 6”) at the
walls. The cut piece at the end of the row can often be used to start the next row provided it achieves a
random layout. Always place the cut end against the wall and allow for the expansion space.
7. Hydri-Core tiles are unique in that they can also be installed with a pull bar or tapping block and rubber
mallet or hammer in difficult areas, such as the last row, and when fitting around door trim. Use a pull bar
and rubber mallet or hammer to lock the joints together in the last row. Always use a pull bar on the cut
edge of the tile. Factory edges can be damaged if the pull bar is used directly against them.
8. When fitting around door trim it will be necessary to slide the tile under the trim. This can be accomplished
easily by starting the row on the side of the room with the door trim and then sliding the tile into place once it
is attached. The row can be completed by inserting the tongue into the groove or the groove into the tongue
depending on the direction. A tapping block and pull bar (See Diagrams 2a & 2b) can also be used to lock the
joints together while the tiles are in a flat position. Use a series of light taps until the joint is gradually locked
together.
Bathrooms: When Hydri-Core planks or tiles are installed in a bathroom the flooring should be installed
around the toilet leaving a 1/8 inch (3.175mm) expansion space. Use 100% silicone caulking to fill the
expansion space at the tub, shower and all wet areas to help prevent surface water seepage under the
floor.
Pipes: In rows where there is a pipe or other vertical object through the subfloor, make sure the object
lines up exactly where two boards will meet on the short ends. Take care to measure carefully before
cutting, so the two boards end at the middle of the object. Use a drill or hole bit that is the diameter of
the pipe or object, plus 1/2 inch for expansion/contraction. Click the two short sides of the boards
together, then drill the hole centered on the joint between the boards as shown. Now you can separate
the two boards and install as normal. See Diagrams 6A – 6C.